Overview

• The programme would require banks to share account data to flag potential benefit fraud, with any alerts assessed by DWP staff.
• Peers are scheduled to examine the legislation further in the House of Lords on 15 and 21 October.
• Initial checks are expected to prioritise Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Employment and Support Allowance, according to specialists.
• The bill introduces financial penalties as an alternative to prosecution and is forecast to save £1.5bn over five years toward a £9.6bn target by 2030.
• Disability Rights UK, Age UK, Privacy International, Child Poverty Action Group and Big Brother Watch warn of suspicionless surveillance and Horizon‑style risks, while the DWP rejects the claims and promises robust oversight and trained staff.